Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

This savory cheeseburger pie transforms America's favorite sandwich into a comforting, sliceable dinner that's been saving busy weeknights in my household for years. With a golden, fluffy top layer and juicy beef filling, it delivers all the satisfaction of a burger but in a form that feeds the whole family with just one dish.

I first discovered this recipe during a particularly chaotic season when my children had activities every evening. This pie became our Wednesday night tradition, and my husband now requests it whenever we need a dose of simple comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped: about a cup of sweet onion adds natural flavor and moisture to the beef
• 1 pound ground beef: choose 80/20 ground chuck for the best flavor balance without excessive grease
• ½ teaspoon salt: enhances the natural flavors without overwhelming the dish
• Ground black pepper to taste: fresh cracked offers the most aromatic punch
• Garlic powder to taste: optional but adds depth that makes this truly craveable
• 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese: sharp cheddar provides the classic burger flavor
• ½ cup Original Bisquick mix: creates the magic top layer without fussy pastry work
• 1 cup whole milk: whole milk provides richness that makes the top layer tender
• 2 large eggs: binds everything together and helps the top puff beautifully

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Heat your oven to 400°F which allows for that perfect golden top. Take a 9inch glass pie plate and give it a thorough coating of vegetable oil, making sure to get the sides too. Glass conducts heat evenly and lets you see when the bottom is properly browned.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add just enough oil to coat the bottom. Add your chopped onion and cook until they become translucent and soft, about 3 minutes. Dont rush this step as properly softened onions release their sweet flavor into the beef.

Brown the Beef:

Add your ground beef directly to the softened onions. Use a spatula to break the meat into small, even crumbles for the best texture. Cook until no pink remains, which takes about 10 minutes. Be sure to drain off excess fat after cooking this prevents a soggy pie later.

Season the Meat:

While the beef is still hot in the pan, sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using. Seasoning the meat while warm helps the flavors penetrate better. Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference the meat should taste slightly more seasoned than you think necessary as the Bisquick layer will balance it.

Layer the Base:

Transfer your seasoned beef and onion mixture into the greased pie plate, spreading it into an even layer that covers the entire bottom. Press it down slightly with the back of your spatula to create a stable base.

Add the Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly over the hot meat mixture. The residual heat will start melting the cheese, creating that authentic cheeseburger experience. Make sure the cheese reaches all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.

Prepare the Topping:

In a bowl, whisk together the Bisquick, milk, and eggs until you have a smooth batter. A few small lumps are fine they will disappear during baking. Make sure your eggs are fully incorporated for the best rise and texture.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the Bisquick batter slowly over the cheese layer, allowing it to seep around the edges and completely cover the pie. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is puffed and golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, though it might have some cheese on it.

Rest and Serve:

Allow the pie to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step lets the layers set so you get perfect slices rather than a messy scoop. Cut into wedges and serve warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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The secret MVP ingredient in this pie is definitely the Bisquick. My grandmother used to make a similar dish she called "Impossible Pie" because the Bisquick magically forms a perfect crust as it bakes. When I serve this to guests, they're always amazed by how something so simple can taste so indulgent.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute Bisquick with something else?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. Just mix it with a pinch of baking powder and a bit of salt for similar results.

→ What other types of cheese can I use?

Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda work wonderfully for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I make this low-carb?

Replace Bisquick mix with a low-carb baking mix to reduce the carbohydrate content.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.

→ Can I add extra ingredients to the pie?

Absolutely! Try adding pickles, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped bacon to enhance the flavors.